Since I'm only 16 and I don't understand how adults think and the world works, I want to ask something. Don't worry, it does have to do with fishing. There is a lake kind of near my house, but it's private. There are some people that live on it that I kind of know. Never really talked to them, we are just sort of aware of each other. I want to get permission to fish the lake. So here is my question. If you lived on a lake, would you have any kind of problem with a teenager who you dont know to well asking you for permission to fish a lake you live on? I guess I am worried that it might cause friction with other neighbors who maybe dont want some kid fishing the lake who isnt a member of the housing association. (400 bucks a year to fish and have acces to a little beach area. I don't think so!)

Hey ILbassin I myself would not have a problem with that I would respect that rather then just finding you out there one day.  I live in a gated community with a lake out back and you are only supposed to fish from your property so I went around and asked my neighbors if they would mind if I fished from there property and they all said no problem go right ahead.  You might not have the same luck, but remmeber if you don't ask you will never get!

always ask first . it makes a world of difference and might even save your hide . if there hesitant you can barter your services perhaps mow the lawn in exchange for fishing or what ever . if they do give you permission it is for you only if you want to bring some one with ask again . Be respectful of the persons property and the privileged you just were given .

My grandpa had a way of doing this with folks , if they asked if they could hunt on his land it was usually not a problem ,but if he found them out there on his land he gave them the count of three before he opened fire . He would shoot the rocks by there feet and kick up the rocks to hit them . he could bark a squirrel [ knock a squirrel out with the bark just bellow it . He found it great fun to make folks dance if they dint ask first .

also remember the rules they lay out for you is the rules you follow......so if they say catch and release only, then so be it.

All good advice. You may also let them know that you will leave no trash behind. Hell you could clean up trash that you find.

I would think that at first the landowners may be shocked that you ask! If you are granted permission, remember that it is for that person's property only, not any neighbors. I will second the oppinion that you have permission and guest privelges are not a part of it. Tom

I would be asking to take my pelican bass raider 8e on the lake. It's just a plastic boat with a trolling motor.

Start by shore fishing, show that you are responsible then ask about the boat. Many private lakes do not allow outside boats due to liability issues. Tom

all good advice. I will also add find out how they feel about keeping any fish you catch. If it is allowed and they enjoy a fish meal it would not hurt to bring them a couple of fillets for dinner. if not make sure that you release all fish inharmed. Above all else respect goes a long way these days. I guess because it can be so rare. Let us know how it turns out.

Brian

Ask, but stay on their waterfront; if u wish to fish other property then ask even though u don't know them. W/1st person ask if u can launch a boat or innertube off their dock. If given permission then u can fish anywhere on pond w/out others concent.